Japan—the Land of the Rising Sun, rich in ancient traditions and distinctive culture, as well as modern technology—offers a unique travel experience for every non-Asian visitor. Check out these 6 interesting facts about Japan that you might not know and will definitely encounter if you visit Japan on vacation.
1.Japan is the Kingdom of Mascots
Japan and mascots go hand in hand. They are not just symbols of fun or, for some, even quirkiness; they also convey important messages. On the streets of Japan, you might encounter a mascot promoting timely colonoscopies. The first mascots started appearing in Japan in the 1990s, but their real boom came in 2007 thanks to Hikonyan, the mascot of the city and castle of Hikone. Today, Japan is home to thousands of mascots, and even prisons have their own mascots.
2.Japanese Trains Are Almost Never Delayed
The Shinkansen, Japan’s network of high-speed railways, is renowned for its advanced technology and incredible punctuality. Traveling on Japanese trains may not be the cheapest option, but the average delay time is only 18 seconds. These trains can also reach speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mi/h).
3.The Japanese Wear Masks Even Without COVID
Masks have been a part of Japanese life for over a hundred years (since 1919). They became prevalent due to the Spanish flu pandemic, dust and ash from earthquakes, and later influenza epidemics and pollution related to post-war industrialization.
Today, masks are a common part of Japanese wardrobes. People wear them considerately, even when they have a slight cold, to prevent spreading illness to others.
4.You Will Find the Most Vending Machines in the World Here
Vending machines—you can find them in Japan on almost every corner (in streets, at stations, in restaurants and shops). You can buy almost everything from them—drinks, food, cigarettes, newspapers, umbrellas, toys, flowers, but also underwear, fresh eggs, soups, etc.
There are so many vending machines in Japan that, on average, there is one vending machine per 25 inhabitants. So, calculate it when Japan has 125 million inhabitants (as of 2022). If you go on holiday to Japan, try counting them (haha).
5.Noble Japanese Warriors are Samurai
Japan and Samurai—you may have heard of them before. But who were these Samurai, actually? A Samurai was a medieval warrior who faithfully served his lord. The greatest disgrace for a warrior was to fall into the hands of the enemy, while death in battle was considered a demonstration of loyalty.
6.Tea Is More Than Just a Beverage
Discover the tea ceremony, which evolved from Buddhist and Taoist rituals emphasizing harmony, respect, tranquility, and simplicity. In Japan, it used to take place in a tea house, where the host conducted the tea preparation. They warmed the tea set, scooped powdered tea, poured hot water over it, and whisked it into a frothy green. The drink was then shared among other guests, often from a communal cup.
In modern times, the tea ceremony and these tea houses are nearly a thing of the past, yet you will still encounter green tea drinking almost everywhere in Japan.
Japan is a land full of surprises and differences. If the mentioned attractions have intrigued you and you would like to visit the most famous tourist places in Japan (such as Tokyo), then a Japan itinerary will come in handy for you. Among your Japan points of interest, Kyoto, Nara, Arashiyama, and Nagano should definitely be included.
